Kia’s boxy-shaped subcompact crossover, the Soul is closing to its new generation. Despite it came redesigned for the 2014 version, Kia is already testing model’s new iteration. The upright Soul is doing well in the market but Kia wants to keep it fresh and the spotted prototype is suggesting that redesigned model will hit the market as the 2019 Kia Soul.

The new model will arrive on the new platform and change some aspects of its aesthetics but will keep its boxy silhouette. Inside we should expect new materials and upgraded electronics. It’s not clear what changes Kia has in the mind for the powertrain options but we expect to repeat the electric and turbocharged versions. The new generation Soul is also expected to bring the all-wheel traction which currently missing from the manual.

2019 Kia Soul: Design

The next-generation 2019 Kia Soul will share the platform with Hyundai’s new Kona and the Kia Stonic. The platform exploits the high-tensile steel and will improve model’s structural rigidity. It also allows multiple powertrain options and new Kia is expected to offer the all-wheel-drive version while will keep the electric option as well.

The styling of the new Soul will continue with tall, boxy silhouette but will implement some styling elements similar to what we can see on the new Hyundai models. The new Soul will wear the split headlight design similar to the new Kona and Santa Fe. The model also seems to have a more raked windshield which could mean that new version is trying to improve the aerodynamics and efficiency.

The model will keep the tall roofline and also seems it will continue with the tall taillights with the slightly different design.

Interior, Equipment:

We still don’t have the insight into the cabin design and what equipment new version will offer. Kia will surely go with the new infotainment features and slightly changed design theme. The model will also offer luxury features like the leather upholstery and heated all seats.

The Soul will also come equipped with the active driver aids which should be more accessible. The model will include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, etc.

2019 Kia Soul: Powertrains

As for the powertrain options, Kia hasn’t yet disclosed any details. The new 2019 Kia Soul will surely offer multiple options and will likely see some powertrains repeated probably with some upgrades.

The current Soul offers turbo and non-turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines. There is also a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder unit with the six-speed automatic transmission. Also used is the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Kia will also repeat the Soul EV. There should be significant mileage boost thanks to the larger battery similar to the one used on the new Kona SUV.

The new model should, however, add the all-wheel-drive option but this is still to be confirmed.

2019 Kia Soul: Arrival, Price

The new 2019 Kia Soul will have the debut late this year or early next. Kia will keep this funky model competitively priced and it will again start around $17, 000.